Lou Ferrigno, who played the original Incredible Hulk, said there were “not enough kind words to post about my dear friend Stan Lee”.

He added: “My life wouldn’t be the same without his incredible talent as a creator, storyteller and friend.

“Rest In Peace Stan. You’ll be missed.”

Josh Brolin, who played villain Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War, wrote: “To those of us who have been so deeply affected by the humanity of his imagination, the understanding of reaching beyond our potential and the necessity of tapping into our immeasurable imaginations, we thank you.”

Tesla and SpaceX entrepreneur Elon Musk said the “many worlds of imagination and delight (Lee) created for humanity will last forever”.

David Hasselhoff said that Lee was “what America is about!”.

He added that Lee was “a true Hero, Inspiration and the ultimate Gentleman!!”.

Actress Kaley Cuoco said she “adored his visits, hugs and fantastic stories”, adding: “He was an epic superhero and I will never forget him!!”

Writer and director Edgar Wright said: “Thanks for inspiring so many of us to pick up a pen or pencil and put your dreams onto paper.”

It’s with great sadness and respect that I write this note! I loved Stan Lee and was honored to be in Nick Fury and the Guardians Inferno end titles song with him. He is what America is about! A true Hero, Inspiration and the ultimate Gentleman!! #stanlee #marvelcomics #nickfury pic.twitter.com/2JcO6cX35j

— David Hasselhoff (@DavidHasselhoff) November 12, 2018

Zachary Levi, who played Fandral in Thor: The Dark World, and Thor: Ragnarok, said Lee “quite literally changed the landscape of entertainment forever”.

He added: “The term ‘legend’ seems to get thrown around a lot these days, but this man is most deserving of it.

“Thank you for everything, Stan. May the heavens be made more colourful with your arrival.”

And actor Seth Rogen said: “Thank you Stan Lee for making people who feel different realise they are special.”